Manan Mandokhail:Â
Quetta, July 18 — The Reko Diq copper and gold project is poised to become a turning point in Balochistan’s development journey, said Zarrar Jamali, Country Manager of Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC), during a ceremony honoring engineers recently trained under the International Graduate Development Program (IGDP).
Speaking at the event in Quetta, Jamali described Reko Diq as one of the world’s largest copper and gold mining ventures. He highlighted its expected role in driving progress for both Balochistan and Pakistan once production begins by late 2028. Shields were presented to young engineers from Balochistan districts who completed 18 months of practical training at Barrick’s Veladero mine in Argentina.
Jamali noted that RDMC, in partnership with Barrick Gold Corporation, had already implemented welfare initiatives for local communities, including clean water, healthcare, and education services.
Adding to the details, RDMC’s Head of HR, Hanno Staden, said the IGDP aims to integrate Balochistan’s youth into the mining industry through global-standard training. In 2024, another batch of 18 young engineers from 11 districts was sent for training in Argentina and Zambia. Staden shared that currently, 75% of RDMC’s workforce comes from Balochistan, with Chagai district contributing 65%. Additionally, 14% of the workforce consists of women.
Communications Manager Samia Shah outlined the project’s ownership structure, clarifying that Barrick Gold holds 50% shares, while 25% belong to federal entities and 25% to the Balochistan government, including a 10% free-carried interest. She emphasized that 90% of mineral processing would occur within Balochistan, maximizing local benefits.
Samia also shared key employment statistics: around 7,500 jobs will be created during the construction phase, while approximately 3,500 permanent positions will exist once mining operations begin. In total, the project is projected to generate over 25,000 indirect job opportunities across supply chains and related industries.
